Dad Network

01/21/2026

https://youtube.com/shorts/wWVfppL1Hzc?si=b5Edd3ahhTtc22zg

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

01/19/2026

https://youtube.com/shorts/18l1ZDwRuaI?si=qkJuu3iBrWv6pPfC

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

01/19/2026

They say “tough love” is the only way to teach our children real lessons. Many of us grew up experiencing it firsthand, and some still live by the old proverb, “Spare the rod and spoil the child.”
But what do you say? 🗣️
In my 30 years in the mental health field, I’ve learned that the strongest parents aren't the ones who rule with fear—they’re the ones who balance a firm hand with an open heart. ❤️‍🔥
If you believe in tough love, you don’t have to abandon those values. You just have to adapt them for today’s version of parenting and fatherhood.
Here is what I shared with the guys in our group this week:
1️⃣ Hold the line, but explain why. 🚧 Be firm with boundaries while helping your child understand the reason behind them. This builds their internal compass.
2️⃣ Natural consequences over harsh punishment. 📉 Whenever possible, let the situation do the teaching. If they don't study, they deal with the grade. That’s the "tough" part.
3️⃣ Connection before correction. 🤝 Children are much more likely to accept tough boundaries when they feel loved, seen, and understood first.
BTW: Science backs this up. Studies show significant mental health risks for children raised in high-control, low-warmth environments. Balance is the key to resilience! (Link in bio for the study 🔗)
📊 POLL TIME: Which TV parent best describes your parenting style? 📺
A) The "Because I Said So" Parent (Uncle Phil - Fresh Prince)
😎 The "I’m A Cool Dad" Parent (Phil Dunphy - Modern Family)
C) The "Every Minute Is A Lesson" Parent (Danny Tanner - Full House)
D) The "Trying My Best Not To Be Red Forman" Parent (That '70s Show)
Drop your letter in the comments! 👇

01/14/2026

Thoughts on being a man and finding your purpose.

01/14/2026

🚨WARNING-Get Your Own Affairs In Order…Before You Criticize Others…It’s easy to blame society and others for your shortcomings -Address your own life’s problems, your behaviors, your environment, the decisions you make when nobody is watching you.

01/08/2026

Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston discuss 2026 goals and share personal New Year's resolutions!

01/02/2026

🎊HAPPY NEW YEAR 2026🎊
As we step into a new year, I’m reminded that fatherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s about showing up, learning as we go, and choosing love even on the hard days. This year, I commit to listening more, leading with patience, and setting an example rooted in integrity, faith, and purpose.

To my children: may this year bring you confidence in who you are, courage to chase your dreams, and comfort in knowing your father is always in your corner. Everything I strive for is so you can stand taller, go further, and never doubt your worth.

Here’s to another year of growth, grace, and building a legacy that starts at home. Happy New Year.

12/17/2025

Reflections on the First Class of the Last Cohort for 2025: Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston

In this reflective piece, Mr. Parker and Dr. Elston share their insights and experiences as they conclude the first class of the 2025 cohort. EPISODE #1

12/17/2025

Big thanks to

Elijah Bailey, Deven Jackson, Pilar Brewster

for all your support! Congrats for being top fans on a streak 🔥!

12/01/2025

Why do many men find it challenging to ask for help? For many, it feels harder than tackling the problem itself. This struggle can be observed in leadership, relationships, and personal challenges, often stemming from a quiet pressure to manage everything independently.

1. Cultural conditioning runs deep. From a young age, boys are often taught to be self-sufficient, tough, and unemotional. Admitting the need for support can feel like breaking an unwritten rule.

2. Asking for help is often seen as a sign of weakness. Many men fear that seeking assistance—whether at work or home—signals incompetence. In reality, it reflects emotional intelligence, humility, and a commitment to growth.

3. The “fix-it” mentality can hinder progress. Men are frequently socialized to be problem-solvers. When an issue arises, asking for help can lead to discomfort and frustration.

4. The absence of safe spaces is significant. Many men lack environments where vulnerability is normalized. Without psychological safety, silence often becomes the default.

The truth is that asking for help is a strength multiplier. It accelerates progress, builds trust, and prevents burnout. The leaders and men who thrive are not those who shoulder everything alone; they are the ones who recognize when to reach out.

Let’s normalize support, connection, and redefine strength.

09/30/2025

“Showing up” for someone goes beyond just physical presence — it’s about emotional, mental, and relational commitment.

09/29/2025

✨ Blessed and honored ✨
A huge thank you to Campbell’s Chapel AME Church for inviting me to speak on Men’s Day. 🙏🏽

It was a privilege to stand among such strong men of faith and fellowship. Grateful for the warm welcome, the powerful worship, and the opportunity to share a word with the congregation.